GARDINER EXPRESSWAY TOPIARY GARDEN HONOURS WAR AMPS 100TH ANNIVERSARY

July 3, 2018 – As Toronto residents drive along the north side of the Gardiner Expressway, they will see a new topiary display featuring The War Amps logo, in honour of the Association’s 100th anniversary.

Amputee veterans returning from the First World War started The War Amps in 1918 to assist each other in adapting to their new reality as amputees. They then welcomed amputee veterans following the Second World War and established the Key Tag Service to gain meaningful employment and provide a service to the public. The War Amps innovative programs have grown over the past 100 years from assisting war amputees – whom they still serve – to all amputees, including children.

The War Amps unique history is reflected in its logo. With the National War Memorial as the background, a war amputee is joined by two child amputees who represent the future of the Association.

Rob Larman, Director of The War Amps PLAYSAFE/DRIVESAFE Program, said, “Thank you to the City of Toronto, Metrolinx Go and Hillside Media Communications for making this a reality. It is a great honour to know that Toronto drivers will catch a glimpse of The War Amps logo, a tribute to our war amputee veterans, during their daily commutes.”

Mark Grimes, Toronto City Councillor for Ward 6 Etobicoke-Lakeshore, said, “It is a privilege to be able to help mark The War Amps 100th anniversary in this way, and acknowledge the vital work of this organization over the last century. We are happy to support and recognize organizations like The War Amps, who continue to improve the lives of amputees throughout our City and country.”

The War Amps receives no government grants and its programs are possible through public support of the Key Tag and Address Label Service.